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Check your chimney - download pdf file

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Check your chimney

Environment Australia

PDF file

Chimney Checker Fridge Magnet

Smoke from woodheaters and fireplaces is a major source of air pollution.

Not only is excess smoke a sign you’re wasting money, but particles in this smoke have been linked to heart and lung disease.

Compare the smoke coming from your chimney with the photos on the front of this card.

If your fire is too smoky, there are five things you can do:

  1. Use dry, seasoned, untreated wood. The logs should make a ‘crack’ when struck together not a ‘dull thud’
  2. Stack wood under cover in a dry ventilated area
  3. Use small logs and place them in your heater in a way that ensures air can circulate freely
  4. Burn the fire brightly. Run the heater on a high burn rate (air control fully open) for 5 minutes before and 15 to 20 minutes after adding logs
  5. Don’t let your heater smoulder overnight - keep the air control open enough to maintain a flame. A well insulated house will stay warmer longer.

Other good wood heating practices:

If you follow these guidelines you’ll save money, help protect our environment and we’ll all breathe the benefits.

 


Breathe the Benefits is a Natural Heritage Trust funded Clear the Air project

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